Kia
Telluride
Mazda
CX-90
Kia Telluride vs Mazda CX-90: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Kia Telluride comes out ahead of the Mazda CX-90 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Telluride
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment overall, with a clear generational divide. The Telluride is widely praised for its spacious and functional third row, high-quality interior materials, boxy and attractive exterior styling, strong value proposition, and comprehensive standard features. The naturally aspirated 3.8L V6 engine is frequently cited as a mature, reliable, and simple powertrain, especially when compared to newer turbocharged or hybrid alternatives.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim. Discussions mention various trims (SX, EX, Calligraphy) without a clear, repeated preference for one over another.
Known issues
- ⚠Engine oil consumption: reports of excessive oil consumption requiring top-ups between changes and, in isolated cases, engine replacement. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Underpowered 3.8L V6 engine: described as lethargic, slow, lacking responsiveness, and struggling with acceleration compared to turbocharged rivals. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Dealer/service department problems: poor customer service, difficulty getting warranty repairs approved, lack of respect for customers, and general service quality concerns. Frequency: very frequent.
CX-90
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear divide between driving experience and reliability concerns. The vehicle is very frequently praised for its exceptional driving dynamics, handling, and powertrain performance, often described as feeling more luxurious and sporty than mainstream competitors. The inline-6 turbo engine is noted for its power and smoothness, and the overall refinement and interior quality are recurrent positives.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim. The Turbo S powertrain is mentioned for its performance.
Known issues
- ⚠New platform reliability concerns: multiple software recalls, unproven long-term durability of the new inline-6 engine, 8-speed transmission, and hybrid systems. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Third-row space limitations: cramped and less usable compared to key competitors like the Telluride, Palisade, and Highlander. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Interior packaging and storage: poorly laid out interior with limited useful storage compartments and cupholders compared to the previous CX-9 and competitors. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Mazda CX-90 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Kia Telluride, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mazda CX-90 are a dealbreaker, the Kia Telluride is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Kia Telluride or the Mazda CX-90?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mazda CX-90 than the Kia Telluride. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Kia Telluride or the Mazda CX-90?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Kia Telluride or the Mazda CX-90?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Kia Telluride or the Mazda CX-90?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.